San Diego is a city that's well-known for its beaches, sunny weather, and laid-back atmosphere. But did you know that it's also a great destination for breakfast lovers?
Whether you're a local or a tourist, there are plenty of breakfast spots to choose from that will satisfy your cravings and kick-start your day.
From classic diners to trendy cafes, San Diego has a diverse range of breakfast restaurants that cater to all tastes and budgets.
Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast burrito, fluffy pancakes, or a fresh acai bowl, you'll find it here. And the best part is, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious breakfast in San Diego.
So, if you're looking for some breakfast inspiration, you've come to the right place. In this post, we'll be sharing some of the best breakfast restaurants in San Diego that are worth trying out. We've scoured the city to find hidden gems and popular spots that locals and visitors alike rave about.
So whether you're in need of a quick breakfast on-the-go or a leisurely brunch with friends, we've got you covered. Get ready to indulge in some of the tastiest breakfast dishes that San Diego has to offer.
1. Hash House A Go Go
Hash House A Go Go is a must-visit breakfast spot for those looking for creative and delicious eats.
Their portions are generous and presented in a unique way. The menu offers a variety of options, including some unique dishes like Wild Boar Chilaquiles.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience.
Though prices are on the higher side, the quality of the food and service make it well worth it. Don't let the long lines deter you – this place is worth the wait!
2. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, is a vibrant and retro chain restaurant that serves creative breakfast and lunch fare along with cocktails.
The menu offers a wide range of gluten-free and vegetarian options, and the serving sizes are huge. The wait time can be long, but the service is excellent and efficient.
The pancakes and French toast are a must-try, and the hot beverages are great. The staff is friendly and accommodating to food allergies.
The atmosphere is fun and hip, and the pricing is reasonable. Snooze is definitely worth a try for a delicious and unique breakfast experience.
3. Great Maple – Hillcrest
Great Maple – Hillcrest is a contemporary breakfast and brunch restaurant that serves elevated comfort food with seasonal produce.
The restaurant offers a diverse menu with something for everyone. The coffee is fresh and bottomless, and the famous powdered and maple bacon donuts are a must-try.
The portions are big, and the service is friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is cool and comforting, with outdoor seating available.
While the prices are higher than average, the quality of the food and service make it worth it. Great Maple – Hillcrest is a great spot for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
4. Antique Row Cafe
Antique Row Cafe is a breakfast restaurant that serves delicious and generously portioned food. The decor is authentic and kitschy, with antiques and memorabilia adorning the walls.
The menu is extensive, offering a variety of breakfast options, including homemade biscuits and gravy, omelettes, and waffles.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and quick to make sure everything is perfect. The prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service.
Antique Row Cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tasty breakfast experience.
5. Lucky's Breakfast
Lucky's Breakfast is a classic vintage diner that offers a unique breakfast experience.
Run by Lucky and his friend/family(?), the service and food may not be what you get at other restaurants down the street but strangely enough, nothing about that is a bad thing at all.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and you'll feel like family the moment you walk in. Lucky serves up affordable meals with a smile and even engages in casual conversation with his customers.
This cash-only joint offers classic breakfast chow and free refills on coffee. Don't miss out on trying their delicious sausage!
6. Perry's Cafe
Perry's Cafe is a retro-style diner that serves up delicious breakfast options. The menu offers a variety of Mexican and Italian specialties, as well as classic American dishes.
The waitstaff is friendly and efficient, ensuring that customers receive their food hot and fresh.
The portions are generous, making it the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast. The decor adds to the charm of the place, transporting customers back to the "good old days".
If you're looking for a satisfying breakfast in a nostalgic setting, Perry's Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
7. The Mission / East Village
The Mission / East Village is a popular breakfast spot that offers a fusion of Asian-Latin cuisine with an international twist.
The cozy and laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a family breakfast or brunch. The menu offers a variety of options for everyone, including gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options.
The portions are generous and the food is flavorful and interesting. The tomatillo sauce and rosemary potatoes are a must-try.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience enjoyable. The only downside is the potential wait time due to the restaurant's popularity.
8. Maggie's Cafe
Maggie's Cafe is a convivial spot serving American and Mexican dishes, including a breakfast menu.
The menu options are extensive, with plenty of savory and sweet options. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is reminiscent of an old-school diner.
The food is the highlight of the restaurant, with delicious dishes like the Country Fried steak and the Crab cake Benedict with Chipotle hollandaise.
Maggie's Cafe is a great place to enjoy a tasty breakfast at a reasonable price.
9. Sunnyboy Biscuit Co
Sunnyboy Biscuit Co is a cozy breakfast spot that specializes in delicious biscuit sandwiches and biscuits with gravy.
Their homemade hot sauce is a must-try, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
The outdoor seating area is a great place to relax and enjoy your meal.
With generous portions and a great value, this is a spot worth checking out for any biscuit lover.
10. Richard Walker's Pancake House
Richard Walker's Pancake House is a breakfast institution known for its famous pancakes.
The restaurant offers a huge selection of breakfast favorites, including San Diego French Toast, Belgium waffles, and baked pancakes.
The staff is super nice and the service is good. However, prices can be steep, with some items costing up to $17 a la carte.
Despite the prices, the food is outstanding and definitely worth a visit. Be sure to arrive early as the restaurant can get busy quickly.
11. Big Kitchen Cafe
Big Kitchen Cafe is a must-visit breakfast and lunch spot that offers classic American diner food with a twist.
The menu has vegetarian and vegan options, and the coffee cake is a must-try.
The staff is friendly and the owner, Judy, is a delight. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming with outdoor seating available.
If you're looking for a unique and tasty breakfast experience, Big Kitchen Cafe is the place to go.
12. Atypical Waffle Company
Looking for a unique breakfast experience that's not your typical pancakes and eggs kind of place, then Atypical Waffle Company is definitely worth checking out.
This cozy cafe serves up delicious homemade liege waffles with both sweet and savory toppings. Their menu offers waffle sandwiches that are a must-try, and they also have refreshing local aloha juices to quench your thirst.
The vibe is chill and hipster with a backyard seating arrangement that's perfect for a relaxing brunch. The service is friendly and quick, and the outdoor setting adds to the overall charm of the place.
So, if you're in the mood for some delicious waffles and a fun atmosphere, then Atypical Waffle Company is the place to be!
13. Swami's Cafe North Park
Swami's Cafe North Park is a must-visit breakfast spot for foodies in search of a delicious and healthy meal.
The menu offers a variety of options for all types of eaters, including vegans. The self-serve coffee bar is a nice touch, allowing customers to choose from a wide range of blends.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
The restaurant has a modern and open atmosphere with plenty of seating, including an outdoor patio. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Highly recommended!
14. Jane's Cafe
Jane's Cafe is a hidden gem that offers delicious breakfast options at unbeatable prices. The staff is friendly and always willing to customize orders to meet customers' needs.
The menu has a great variety of foods, including vegan options, and the portions are small but filling.
The cafe is perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch, and the grab-and-go service makes it easy to order and pick up food.
The atmosphere is modern and comfortable, with plenty of space to relax or work. If you're looking for a great breakfast spot, Jane's Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
15. Cali Breakfast
Cali Breakfast is a must-visit breakfast spot for anyone looking for a low-key and colorful atmosphere.
The friendly staff provides wonderful service and the food is simply amazing. The French Toast is super tasty and the Fruit Bowl is served with sweet fruits.
The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, including lattes, hot chocolate, margarita, and mimosa flights.
The breakfast burrito is a must-try and the smoked salmon and avocado Toast is fantastic. The trendy vibe and comfy seating make this place perfect for breakfast or brunch.
16. Seaview Restaurant
Seaview Restaurant offers a great breakfast experience with fresh and tasty seafood options.
The brunch buffet is one of the best in town and reasonably priced. The service is excellent with friendly staff that cater to all needs.
The atmosphere is perfect for indoor or outdoor seating, making it a great spot for business meetings or weekend brunch with friends. The restaurant offers three hours of free parking, which is a plus.
If you're looking for a family-friendly spot, they have got you covered. Don't miss out on the Christmas buffet lunch. Highly recommended.
17. Fig Tree Cafe
Fig Tree Cafe is a breakfast restaurant that offers fresh and delicious meals with beautiful presentation. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu items.
The restaurant has a great ambiance with an open and clean dining area. The food is cooked to perfection, and the ingredients taste fresh.
There are vegan and vegetarian options available, which are equally delicious. The service is outstanding, and the servers are polite and helpful.
The prices are reasonable, making it a great place to have brunch. If you're looking for a tasty breakfast spot, Fig Tree Cafe should definitely be on your list!
